Mental Health
In my newsletter this week I would like to discuss mental illness. Now I know this subject is not one that is often talked about, but I think this is an area that should be addressed and not pushed aside since there are various people who struggle with different types of mental illness. Did you know that there are over 200 classified forms of mental illness? According to the National Illness of Mental Health, “It is estimated that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness (57.8 million in 2021). Mental illnesses include many different conditions that vary in degree of severity, ranging from mild to moderate too severe.” With the numbers rising, my hope is that society will be aware of these ailments and walk alongside those who are affected in one way or another. Many times, people who are struggling already feel alone, ashamed or feel like an outcast. But in reality, they more than likely do not have control of what they are struggling with. With this said, by having a loving person come alongside them and meet them where they are without judgement, this can make all the difference in the world to them. The idea reminds me about a story in the Bible where Jesus did not allow mental health to get in the way of helping a man who lived in a cave and needed a friend as well as help. Instead of shunning the man, Jesus embraced him. He talked to him, looked him in the eyes and provided assistance that changed his life forever. Much like this story, we have the same opportunity to help as well. But, how many of us shy away from being around people who are facing these obstacles? How many of us ignore people who struggle with mental illness? Wouldn’t the world be a much better place if we stepped up and saw others through the lens of Jesus rather than through eyes of judgement. For people who are struggling with mental health, you are not alone. He will give all the courage and confidence that is needed to win the race. He will place encouragers in their path when they are down. He will strengthen them when they are weak. Therefore, I encourage all of you who struggle to keep persevering and know each one of you are loved and accepted. For the rest of us who do not struggle in this area, can we agree to commit to being the support that is needed to embrace those who struggling with mental illness while being the hands and feet of Jesus?
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
Do you know someone who struggles with mental illness?
Do you treat them differently because they are not like you?
Will you open your heart to show love and speak life in to them while accepting them as Jesus does?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - After all “God only knows what you’ve been through”